Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) Budgam of SKUAST-K organised an awareness-cum-input distribution programme under the Tribal Sub Plan (TSP) initiative titled “Promotion of Natural Farming in Tribal Areas of Kashmir”.

The programme was held under the leadership of Vice Chancellor, SKUAST-K, Prof Nazir Ahmad Ganai. Around 60 tribal farmers from Surasyar, Chadoora, participated and were provided inputs such as drums, buckets, gloves and shoes for preparation of bio-resource inputs for natural farming.

Director Extension, SKUAST-K, Prof Raihana Habib Kanth, who was the chief guest, highlighted the importance of adopting climate-resilient and sustainable agricultural practices. She urged farmers to stay connected with KVK scientists and field officers to ensure proper technical guidance and to benefit from government schemes.

She also spoke about the scope and challenges of natural farming in Kashmir, describing it as the “farming of microbes”, and stressed the importance of soil health, water management and conservation agriculture, including minimum or zero tillage practices.

Prof Kanth further outlined SKUAST-K’s role in strengthening agricultural research to support the farming community in the Valley.

Head, KVK Budgam, Dr Bilal Ahmad Lone, briefed farmers on the role of KVKs in promoting agriculture and allied sectors through on-farm trials, frontline demonstrations and skill-based training programmes. He encouraged farmers to utilise KVK services for improving farm productivity and income.

During the programme, scientists and technical staff interacted with farmers and demonstrated various natural farming practices, with a focus on promoting entrepreneurship in agriculture and allied sectors.

Dr Shazia Ramzan presented an overview of the natural farming project being implemented in the district and stressed the need for a clear strategy, stakeholder coordination and development of market linkages for natural farming produce.

The programme concluded with a vote of thanks by Prof Bhinish Shakeel.